Things To Do
in Hinatuan
Hinatuan is a coastal town located in the province of Surigao del Sur in the Philippines. It is known for its stunning natural attractions, including the Enchanted River, a mesmerizing blue river that flows into the Pacific Ocean. The town also boasts picturesque beaches, lush coconut plantations, and vibrant coral reefs perfect for snorkeling and diving.
Hinatuan offers a peaceful and serene atmosphere, making it a popular destination for tourists seeking relaxation and immersion in nature.
- "Kumusta ka?" - How are you?
- "Salamat" - Thank you
- "Paalam" - Goodbye
- "Oo" - Yes
- "Hindi" - No
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $20 - $50
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $5 - $15
- ☕ Coffee: $1 - $3
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $0.50 - $1
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $60
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $15 - $30
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day by visiting the famous Hinatuan Enchanted River. Enjoy a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters and take stunning photographs of the natural beauty.
Head to the nearby island of Cabag Island for a snorkeling experience. The vibrant marine life and coral reefs will leave you in awe.
Wind down your day by enjoying a local dinner at a seaside restaurant. Taste fresh seafood dishes and savor the ocean breeze.
Begin your day with a hike to the nearby Tinuy-an Falls, known as the 'Niagara Falls of the Philippines'. Marvel at the cascading water while enjoying the tranquil surroundings.
After lunch, visit the serene Binuangan Falls for a relaxing afternoon. Swim in the cool waters and take in the picturesque scenery.
End your day with a sunset viewing at the beach. The breathtaking colors of the sky will make for perfect photo opportunities.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Stunning natural beauty, including pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.
- Rich cultural heritage with friendly locals and vibrant traditions.
- Popular tourist attractions like the Hinatuan Enchanted River.
- Opportunities for outdoor activities such as snorkeling, diving, and hiking.
- Limited infrastructure and amenities compared to larger urban areas.
- Potential for typhoons and heavy rains during the wet season.
- Access to some areas may require longer travel times.
- Limited availability of medical facilities and services.
Best Activities in Hinatuan
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Visit the stunning Enchanted River and go swimming, snorkeling, or diving in its crystal-clear waters. Don't miss the fish feeding activity at noon when the river comes alive with colorful marine life.
Explore the beautiful Britania Islands known for their pristine beaches, turquoise waters, and perfect for island hopping, snorkeling, and beach picnics.
Experience the majestic Tinuy-an Falls, often called the 'Niagara Falls of the Philippines,' and enjoy swimming, bamboo rafting, and trekking in the lush surrounding tropical forest.
Places to Visit in Hinatuan
Visit one of these nice places.
A stunning blue river with clear waters surrounded by lush greenery, offering picturesque views and great photo opportunities.
A majestic multi-tiered waterfall that provides breathtaking natural scenery and excellent photo opportunities for visitors.
A vibrant local market by the sea, where visitors can capture the bustling atmosphere and colorful displays of fresh seafood and local produce.
Food in Hinatuan
Hinatuan Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A popular dish made of fresh raw fish or seafood marinated in vinegar, calamansi, and spices. It's a refreshing and flavorful appetizer often enjoyed with a cold beer. Try it at local seafood restaurants like Palen’s Restaurant.
Must-Try!
A fusion dish combining grilled pork belly (sinugba) and kinilaw, creating a delightful balance of smoky and tangy flavors. You can savor this dish at Hinatuan's beachside eateries, such as Surigao del Sur Beach Resort.
Lato is a type of seaweed, often referred to as 'sea grapes,' and is enjoyed in a refreshing salad with onions, tomatoes, and a zesty dressing. Look for it at local seafood markets or seaside food stalls for an authentic experience.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling market offers a wide array of fresh produce, seafood, and street food. Look out for grilled fish skewers, local fruit shakes, and the beloved balut (duck embryo) sold by street vendors in the evening.
Experience a variety of grilled seafood, including squid and fish, served by local vendors right by the picturesque Mabua Pebble Beach. It's a fantastic spot to enjoy fresh seafood and beautiful coastal views.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Hinatuan, it is important to greet people with respect, using polite language and gestures.
Respect local customs such as removing your shoes before entering someone's home and participating in traditional celebrations and rituals.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Hinatuan, so always show deference and courtesy towards older individuals.
Safety
Tipping in Hinatuan
Ensure a smooth experience
In Hinatuan, Philippines, tipping is not a common practice. However, in some upscale restaurants or hotels, a service charge may be added to the bill, in which case additional tipping is not necessary.
Cash is the most common form of payment in Hinatuan. Credit and debit cards are not widely accepted, especially in smaller businesses. It's advisable to carry sufficient cash when visiting Hinatuan for transactions.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
The best time to visit Hinatuan is during the dry season when you can expect pleasant weather, sunshine, and ideal conditions for outdoor activities such as exploring Enchanted River and Tinuy-an Falls.
During the wet season, you can expect more rain and higher humidity levels. However, this time of year can also offer lush green landscapes and fewer tourists, making it a good opportunity to experience a different side of Hinatuan.
Hinatuan at Night
Hiking in Hinatuan
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful river known for its blue waters, surrounded by lush jungle trails. It offers various hiking paths that lead to scenic viewpoints.
This spot features trails through a bamboo grove, providing a unique hiking experience with serene surroundings and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
This coastal trail offers stunning views of the ocean and nearby cliffs. Perfect for hiking enthusiasts who enjoy beach scenery and ocean breezes.
A local mountain that provides a challenging hike and rewarding views from the summit. The trail is surrounded by rich biodiversity.
A scenic hike leading to beautiful waterfalls, ideal for nature lovers. The path features diverse flora and fauna along the way.
Aiports
How to reach Hinatuan by plane.
Located in Davao City, approximately 145 km from Hinatuan. It serves both domestic and international flights.
Located in Cebu City, around 230 km from Hinatuan. This airport is the second busiest in the Philippines and caters to international flights.
Situated approximately 340 km away in Iloilo City, it serves both domestic and international routes.
Located in Kalibo, around 460 km from Hinatuan. Primarily serves international flights, especially to various Asian destinations.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest ethnolinguistic group in Hinatuan, primarily speakers of Cebuano and descendants of migrants from the Visayas region.
An indigenous group in the area, primarily speaking the Surigaonon language, associated with the northeast Mindanao region.
A collective term for various indigenous groups in Mindanao, including those residing in Hinatuan, often preserving traditional customs and cultures.
Migrants or descendants from the Tagalog regions, contributing to the cultural diversity in Hinatuan.
Local Chinese-Filipino community engaged in business and trade, adding to the economic diversity of the municipality.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Basketball is one of the most popular sports in Hinatuan, with local leagues and community games frequently organized.
Volleyball enjoys a significant following, especially among women, with many schools and community teams participating in tournaments.
Badminton has gained popularity in Hinatuan due to its accessibility and the establishment of local clubs and courts.
This traditional sport, similar to volleyball but played with a rattan ball, is popular in many Philippine communities, including Hinatuan.
Football is growing in popularity, with local teams participating in regional competitions and events.
With its beautiful coastline, Hinatuan has become a spot for surfing enthusiasts, especially during the surfing season.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Hinatuan.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Filipino cuisine often includes meat and fish, many restaurants and eateries in Hinatuan are accommodating to vegetarians and vegans. Look for dishes featuring locally grown vegetables, as well as options based on coconut milk, tofu, and tropical fruits.
Restaurants in Hinatuan offer gluten-free alternatives, particularly those focusing on fresh seafood and tropical ingredients. Dishes like grilled fish, fruit salads, and vegetable-based soups can be good choices for those seeking gluten-free dining options.